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Loi Krathong Sao

This November festival is also known as the festival of lights because during the two day event locals thread coconut shells together and send them on their way in a huge wave along the Ping River.

Set free off the 200 year old Rattanakosin Bridge, onlookers can see a string of hundreds of glittering lights floating by into the night. Traditionally each float is shaped as a lotus blossom and when locals place the string of coconut shells into the river it is believed that they are giving an offering to Mae Khongkha, the mother of waters, in hopes of appeasement and symbolises letting go of one's pain, sorrow, and ill-fortunes.

This tradition is ancient but has been well preserved, and represents a chance for starting anew.